Abstract
Aim:Lack of training and knowledge about palliative care, especially perinatal palliative care of health professionals, is emphasized in many studies. The aim of this study was to determine the level of knowledge of the midwifery students about palliative care and perinatal palliative care. Methods: The study sample consists of the midwifery students studying at Giresun University Department of Midwifery in 2017-2018 academic year. The research sample consists of 223 (%87) students who agreed to participate in the study. To collect data, a researcher-developed survey was used. The survey with face-to-face interview assessed socio-demographic characteristics and Palliative Care and Perinatal Palliative Care knowledge and attitudes. Results: The mean age of students was 20.72±0.12 (18-32) years. 81.6 % of participants stated that they had not had education on palliative care (PC), 90.1% have not had education on perinatal palliative care (PPB), 80.3% were wanted education related to PB, and 87.4% on PPB. The topics that should be included in the palliative care education according to the participants following; basic concepts of palliative care (95.5 %), communication (74%), roles and responsibilities of team members (73.1%), and PPB-basic concepts and principles (88.8%), loss and mourning process (82.1%) and communication (73.1%). Students stated that the responsibilities related to perinatal palliative care are as follow; adequate information and equipment such as pain management should be provided to increase the quality of life of the baby, giving information about the family situation and being a multidirectional supporter in this process, and treating patients in accordance with ethical rules. Conclusion: To increase awareness of midwifery students about palliative care and perinatal palliative care, palliative care, and perinatal palliative care should be integrated into in-service training programs before and after graduation.